Introduction
Rory Feek Shares Emotional Tribute to Late Wife Joey and Daughter Indiana: “God Doesn’t Make Mistakes”
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Country singer and songwriter Rory Feek has once again touched hearts with a moving tribute to his daughter Indiana, whom he shares with his late wife Joey Feek of the beloved country duo Joey + Rory.
In a recent video shared on his social media, Rory captured tender moments between Indiana — who was born with Down syndrome in 2014 — and her mother Joey, who passed away from cervical cancer in 2016 at the age of 40. The clip, set to a soft acoustic melody, shows the love between mother and daughter that continues to inspire millions.
“God doesn’t make mistakes,” Rory wrote in his post. “Watching Indiana stir in her crib this morning reminded me that she is not less than any other child. Different is not less. Having Down syndrome doesn’t make her life any less meaningful or her dreams any less important.”
Since Joey’s passing, Rory has raised Indiana at their family farm just outside of Nashville. He often shares updates about their life together on his blog This Life I Live, describing how his daughter’s strength gives him hope through grief. “She’s the reason I smile every day,” he said. “Through her, I see Joey’s spirit still alive.”
Born in Atchison, Kansas, Rory Lee Feek began his career as a songwriter in Nashville after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. Over the years, he has written major hits for artists like Blake Shelton, Clay Walker, and Tracy Byrd, including the chart-topping “Some Beach.”
In 2008, Rory and Joey formed Joey + Rory, quickly gaining national attention after finishing third on the CMT competition Can You Duet? The couple’s warm harmonies, family values, and faith-based storytelling earned them a loyal following and multiple awards, including a Grammy for “Hymns That Are Important to Us.”
Following Joey’s death, Rory continued to honor her legacy through music, writing, and community work. On his Tennessee farm — which also serves as a concert hall and schoolhouse — he frequently hosts events centered on family, faith, and sustainable living.
Now remarried to Rebecca Feek as of July 2024, Rory says Joey’s influence continues to shape his life. “I still feel her everywhere — in the music, in the farm, and most of all, in Indiana’s smile.”
Eight years after losing his wife, Rory Feek’s story remains one of resilience, love, and faith — a reminder that even in heartbreak, life can still sing.